Apple just released a statement saying that the white version of the iPhone 4 would not be available until “the second half of July. When the iPhone 4 was originally revealed at WWDC, it was shown in both black and white, however when the anticipated launch date rolled around on the 24th of June, the white iPhone 4 was nowhere to be seen.

Many iPhone 4 owners are expecting possible recall news on the reception/antenna issues that have plagued the device to take center stage, but Apple might try and put a positive spin on events by announcing a solid release date for the highly anticipated white model.

Apple said that the shortage of the white iPhones will not affect supply of the more popular black models. Apple’s reason did raise a few eyebrows: White models of Apple’s new iPhone 4 have proven more challenging to manufacture than expected. Apple characteristi call didn’t offer any further explanation, but did declared that the “more popular” black model is not affected by the troubles. That is a relief, since the black model is the more attractive of the two.

If today’s statement is accurate, the white iPhone 4 definitely won’t be available at the Apple Store, but it’s unclear if Walmart will carry the phone.